the authentic pretzel. The traditional pretzel parts ways with actually the more common topping in Germany. Considering the softness of the American pretzel. this, offer customers both options, as well as spicy styles and a variety of other interesting flavors. Because mustard is a “Our pretzels are not as soft as an American pretzel. The belly more common topping in the US, it will probably prove to be is bigger and the knot itself is pretty crisp. The crust is so much more economical and popular than butter. Depending on your crunchier,” says Rothe. “A lot of people thought our pretzels customers’ interests and demand, you may want to just offer a were stale. German breads are pretty heavy — not stale. We variety of mustards. definitely had to educate our customers.” “I think in the US people see a pretzel on a corner and see it as While mustard is a common condiment for pretzels in the US, a junk food item,” Rothe says. “As soon as they see it on a plate, it is actually uncommon in many regions of Germany. Butter is they see it as gourmet.” TIMMY TR A BON Innovative Packaging Solutions Free-standing paper baking molds www.novacartusa.com bakemag.com | MAR 2013 > 41http://www.novacartusa.com